Navigating the immigration process can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the costs associated with a Partner Visa for Australia. For Indian couples looking to start their lives together down under, it’s crucial to have a clear grasp of all potential expenses involved in the application process. In this blog, we’ll break down the costs, and additional expenses in 2024.
Partner Visa Australia
A partner visa is a way of uniting with your significant other who is either an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand resident. In order to, promote family unification Australia offers a number of spouse visas. There are a lot of factors that matter when it comes to whether spouses would be granted a visa, but we will be looking at the visas in brief.
The Australia partner visa is usually divided into two steps, which means that first the applicant is granted a temporary visa and once that has been granted, after a while they can go on to apply for the permanent visa. While they are on a temporary visa, they can study, work, or travel to Australia as many times as they like. The temporary visa enables the spouses to live a full life while they wait for a permanent visa once they meet certain conditions.
Types of Australia Spouse Visa
Australia offers two main types of Partner Visas, each tailored to different circumstances:
Subclass 820/801: Onshore Partner Visa
This visa is designed for individuals applying from within Australia. The process involves two stages:
- Subclass 820: A temporary visa allowing you to stay in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
- Subclass 801: A permanent visa is granted upon approval of your relationship’s genuineness and continuity.
Eligibility generally requires proving a genuine and ongoing relationship, which can be demonstrated through shared finances, social activities, and mutual commitments.
Subclass 309/100: Offshore Partner Visa
This visa is intended for applicants living outside Australia. It also involves two stages:
- Subclass 309: A temporary visa that allows you to enter Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
- Subclass 100: A permanent visa is granted after demonstrating that your relationship is genuine.
Applicants must provide evidence of a committed relationship, often through various forms of documentation like joint bank accounts, photos, and statutory declarations.
The primary distinction lies in your location during the application. Onshore applicants often have different processing times and conditions compared to those applying from abroad. Making educated selections requires an understanding of these distinctions.
Spouse Visa Australia Application Fees
As of 2024, the application fees for Partner Visas are as follows:
Subclass 820/801: The applicant needs to pay AUD 9095 while they are applying for the temporary visa (subclass 820). Since the fee is included in this initial application they would not need to pay again for the permanent visa (subclass 801).
Subclass 309/100: The cost of this visa is also same, that is AUD 9095 and this includes the cost of both the temporary and permanent visas.
These fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the latest updates. Additionally, these fees are generally paid in Australian dollars, so converting them to Indian Rupees accurately is crucial for budgeting.
Additional Costs for Spouse Visa Australia
In addition to the application fees, various other expenses must be taken into account:
Medical Examination Costs
All applicants are required to undergo a medical examination conducted by an approved doctor. This is a critical step in the visa application process, ensuring that applicants meet health requirements. The costs can vary based on the clinic and the tests required. It’s wise to budget for potential additional tests that might be required based on individual circumstances.
Police Clearance Certificates
A police clearance certificate from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last ten years is mandatory. This includes India, where you’ll need to obtain a clearance from the local police station. The cost for obtaining this document can generally be a couple thousand rupees but additional charges may apply if documents need to be mailed internationally.
Document Translation and Certification
Any non-English documents need to be validated and translated. This could include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other vital records. The costs for professional translation services can vary widely. It’s essential to ensure that the translation is done by a recognized service to meet visa requirements.
Immigration Agents
While hiring a migration agent is not mandatory, many applicants find it beneficial. Migration agents can help you navigate the complexities of the application process, ensuring that all paperwork is in order and that your case is presented effectively.
Hidden Costs to Consider
When budgeting for your Partner Visa, it’s important to keep an eye on additional hidden costs that can arise:
- Travel Expenses: You may need to travel for interviews or appointments, which can include transportation, accommodation, and meals. Budgeting for these costs in advance can help avoid surprises later.
- Document Procurement Costs: Obtaining essential documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, can incur fees, especially if you need them in a specific format or require expedited services.
- Potential Costs for Dependents: If you plan to include children or other dependents in your application, be prepared for extra fees. Each dependent will typically incur their own visa fees, medical examination costs, and document requirements.
Understanding the costs associated with a Partner Visa application is essential for Indian applicants looking to move to Australia. By breaking down the fees and potential expenses, you can prepare yourself for a smoother application process. Whether you choose to navigate this journey alone or seek professional assistance, being well-informed is the first step toward your new life in Australia.
West Highlander Immigration – Australia Spouse Visa Agents
West Highlander Immigration is a dedicated agency specializing in Australia Spouse Visas, providing expert guidance from a MARA agent for couples looking to reunite in Australia. With a deep understanding of the immigration process, they assist clients in navigating the complexities of visa applications, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate. Their experienced team offers personalized support, helping applicants understand eligibility requirements and the necessary evidence to demonstrate a genuine relationship. Committed to simplifying the journey for individuals and families, West Highlander Immigration aims to make the application process as smooth and efficient as possible, empowering clients to achieve their dreams of living together in Australia.